Snakes

Snakes are fascinating creatures that have lived on earth for millions of years. Through years of complex evolution, they have developed into legless reptiles with cylindrical elongated bodies that we know and recognize throughout the world today. More than 3,000 different species inhabit the Earth; snakes are found in every continent except Antarctica, and have adapted to survive in a broad range of habitats, from the arid deserts of Africa to the humid rainforests in South America and Asia. Some species have evolved to suit an aquatic lifestyle, and solely reside in the Indian Ocean and southwest Pacific, while others have developed unique skills, such as flying snakes that are able to glide between trees in the rainforest.

All snakes are carnivorous but types of prey that form their diet varies between species. While rodents and birds contribute to part of their diet, many snakes will also feed upon frogs, newts, and eggs, and some will even target domestic pets and agricultural animals should a large meal be required!
More than a quarter of all snake species are venomous, enabling them to deliver a toxic concoction to paralyze and kill their prey. Others are constrictors, using their powerful muscles to subdue their prey. Snakes are vital in ecosystems around the world, and with studies on snake venom revealing some interesting surprises in the world of medicine, more efforts are being made to conserve these magnificent creatures.

This book explores the diet, behavior, and habitats of a mixed range of some popular and well-known snake species – from the mighty anaconda to highly developed viper – and the anatomical differences, reproductive practice, and the evolutionary journey of 14 species of snake are detailed.